China's autonomous regions

You’ve probably heard of Tibet, but did you know there are four other areas that comprise China’s autonomous regions?

Guangxi, Inner Mongolia, Ningxia and Xinjiang, as well as Tibet, all have their own local government – just like the standard provinces do. However, due to the higher proportion of ethnic minorities in the autonomous regions, they have more legislative rights.

With the exception of Guangxi, which borders Vietnam and the South China Sea, the autonomous regions are located inland. All have a lower standard of living than the provinces dotted along the eastern seaboard.

Although there are fewer teaching roles available, if you do happen to secure a teaching position in one of the autonomous regions you're guaranteed of a unique and unforgettable experience.

China's autonomous regions at a glance

Autonomous region

Highlights

Guangxi

Home to the Zhuang people

Guilin’s breathtaking scenery is a tourist favorite

Surrounded by peaks and a river, the town of Yangshuo is a delight

Marvel at the Longsheng rice terraces carved into the mountains

Inner Mongolia

Home to the Mongol people

Visit capital city Hohhot’s many temples

Enjoy the open space of the grasslands

Ningxia

The Hui people make up about one-third of the region

Mostly desert region

The Great Wall of China cuts through its north-eastern boundary

The Western Xia tombs, which are still being excavated, are just 19 miles (30 km) from the capital Yinchuan

Tibet

9 out of every 10 people in the region are native Tibetans

Only open to tourists since the 1980s

Steeped in rich history and culture

Harsh and rugged terrain

World’s biggest mountain, Mount Everest, borders Nepal

The iconic Potala Palace, perched on top of a hill in capital Llhasa, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

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